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EDITORIALS

How would you curb domestic violence in Maine?

University of Maine students, including junior Josceline Dupuis (center) participate in the 25th annual Take Back the Night rally and vigil Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2009, on the Orono campus to raise awareness of sexual and domestic violence. Buy Photo

Posted Dec. 26, 2012, at 4:40 p.m.

The coming year could easily be filled with struggles between a Democratic-controlled Legislature and a Republican governor. Amid the anticipated contention, however, there is one issue that should bring Democrats and Republicans together rather than divide them: reducing rates of domestic violence.

Much more, of course, can be done. Reducing rates of sexual and domestic violence and protecting survivors will require compassion and acknowledgement of the complexity often surrounding abusive situations. It could involve creative projects — such as involving hairdressers in a nationwide program called Cut It Out, to be trained how to watch for and respond to signs of abuse.

Most of all, though, finding answers will require everyone’s help: community groups, schools, legislators, police, churches, men and women, young and old. Dealing with such multi-faceted, far-reaching problems like domestic violence and sexual assault necessitates many different solutions.

2. Focus on bullying in schools, where the roots of future domestic violence may form. How can Maine better teach its young people that identity is not defined in any way by violence? Athletic coaches have the power to help, as do student-led groups.

4. Begin an electronic monitoring program to ensure abusers comply with protective orders. Maine is on its way to developing such a program, and legislation is anticipated this session. A responsible monitoring program, where defendants are required to wear tracking devices if they exhibit certain risk factors, is greatly needed. Too many abusers ignore no-contact orders, and victims, who fear reprisal, may be hesitant to inform police, especially if they lack evidence of the violation.

In 2013, the BDN will continue to look at ways to help prevent domestic violence and protect survivors. We invite you to write to us at erhoda@bangordailynews.com with your specific ideas about what should be done to address one of Maine’s most pressing problems. We will consider your ideas and may feature them in future editorials. Eliminating sexual and domestic violence will require everyone’s help.